Dihydromyricetin (DHM) is a type of metabolite found in plants called a flavonol.

It has the chemical structure (2R,3R)-3,5,7-trihydroxy-2-(3,4,5-trihydroxyphenyl)-2,3-dihydrochromen-4-one.

The compound, also known as Ampelopsin, occurs naturally in cedar trees (cedra deodara) and Japanese raisin trees.

One of the original herbs used in ancient Chinese medicine, Dihydromyricetin is generally connected to functions involving the liver. Its ability to protect the liver from damage classifies the drug as hepatoprotective.

Recently, the compound has received attention for its ability to impact the brain’s reaction to alcohol. Specifically, it is suspected that this could be a naturally-derived hangover cure, which functions by enhancing natural brain chemistry. Other flavonoids include compounds found in green tea and grape seed extract. Like these, DHM may also have strong neuro-protective properties.

The most notable effect of Dihydromyricetin is its interaction with alcohol response in the brain. More specifically, DHM interacts with GABA(A) receptor sites and blocks them from binding with alcohol.

This antagonistic effect alters the brain’s perception of intoxication. It is important to note that this effect has no impact upon actual blood alcohol content, merely the brain’s subjective experience of excessive alcohol.

Studies with rats have also demonstrated a related function, which is the protection of the liver from alcohol damage. While it is not known exactly how this effect is achieved, the brain’s perception of impairment may be related.

Many manufacturers claim that Dihydromyricetin is also an anti-oxidant neuro-protective, citing its ability to inhibit the upregulation of heme oxygenase-1. This chemical is released by the body in response to oxidative stress.

Dihydromyricetin Benefits

While it is not considered a “cure” for dangerous alcohol blood toxicity, Dihydromyricetin may reduce many of the behaviors associated with heavy drinking. These might include confusion, slurred speech, and motor impairment such as difficulty balancing.

A dose of the supplement can cut these symptoms dramatically. It has also been suggested that DHM can reduce or even eliminate the symptoms of hangover on the day following heavy drinking. It is often paired with L-Cysteine and Milk Thistle extract for this purpose.

Instead of the typical headache, difficulty concentrating, and lack of motivation standard to hangovers, users find that they have strong mental energy and the ability to concentrate.

While these effects are in line with the mental energy effects of dopaminergic supplements, no hard scientific connection has been made between dopamine and the more experimental Dihydromyricetin. No studies have been done on DHM’s long term neuro protective benefits.

Dihydromyricetin Dosage

The typical commercial dose of Dihydromyricetin is 300 mg per capsule. It is suggested to take 1 – 2 capsules for a total of 600 mg, to counteract the effects of up to 6 servings of hard liquor. This dosage can produce sobering effects if taken immediately after drinking. Most people take a dosage to prevent the following day’s hangover.

DHM does not make it safe to drive or operate machinery while drinking. It would also have no impact upon blood alcohol testing conducted by law enforcement. It should never be taken for these purposes.

Dihydromyricetin Side Effects

The use of this plant-based remedy to prevent hangover and protect the liver has been largely side effect free for more than centuries of use in Chinese medicine. Dihydromyricetin is considered non-toxic and organic.

The main negative side effects discussed with this medication is the possibility of over-drinking or drunk driving, as users may be unaware of how intoxicated they actually are.

This is an extremely dangerous possibility, so responsible use of the drug is essential. Designated drivers should be alerted that the drug is in use, in order to help judge when enough alcohol has been consumed for an evening.

In addition to DHM, there are several natural nootropic remedies and smart drugs on the market which boost mental concentration naturally, especially as relates to hangovers. The vitamin B6 derivative known as Pyritinol is noted to promote mental focus in the wake of dopamine depletion due to drinking. The class of supplements known as cognitive metabolic enhancers all work to “rev up” sluggish brain function safely under these conditions.

Dihydromyricetin Review

Dihydromyricetin is an ancient botanical remedy which has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Throughout that time, it has been a safe treatment for liver issues and a cure for hangover.

Today, the drug’s interaction with GABA receptor sites is credited with reducing the perception of alcoholic impairment, and may have something to do with the elimination of hangovers from drinking. These effects can also be achieved with metabolic cognitive enhancers like Pyritinol.

DHM is an interesting supplement which can protect the liver. However, it should be taken with care to avoid toxic over-intoxication.

OVERVIEW: Dihydromyricetin (DHM) is an herbal extract from the Hovenia Dulcis plant. This natural flavanoid has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to relieve hangovers and promote liver health. READ MORE...

USED FOR: Hangover, Liver Health, Kidney Health, Laxative.

MECHANISM: Dihydromyricetin is an antagonist of GABA-A receptors, which may inhibit some of the effects of alcohol intoxification.

DOSAGE: 300 - 600 mg; Taken prior to alcohol consumption.

SIDE EFFECTS: Limited research data into safety profile or possible side effects. May reduce perception of alcohol's effects and cause the user to feel "sober" when they are intoxicated.

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